586-792-3891
Contact lenses have revolutionized vision correction, offering freedom from glasses and a clearer view of the world. But for millions, that freedom comes with a catch—Contact Lens Intolerance (CLI). Whether it’s dryness, discomfort or recurring infections, CLI is a growing concern among long-term lens wearers.
At Lake Lazer Eye Center, we believe knowledge is power, so we’re breaking down the numbers behind CLI and what they mean for your eyes.
The Hidden Epidemic of CLI
With more than 41 million contact lens wearers in the U.S., CLI isn’t rare—in fact, it’s inevitable for many. Studies show that most contact lens users will experience some form of contact lens intolerance during their lifetime. The reasons vary, but poor hygiene, overwearing and lack of proper guidance are leading culprits. The sad truth is that nearly all surveyed wearers admitted to at least one risky behavior, like sleeping in lenses or skipping cleaning routines.
The Guidance Gap
Here’s a stat that might surprise you: Only 42 percent of glasses-only wearers say their eye care provider ever recommended contact lenses. Meanwhile, friends and family are twice as likely to suggest trying them. This disconnect means many potential wearers miss out on professional advice, increasing the risk of CLI when they finally make the switch.
CLI and CLD Explosion
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Americans make approximately 1 million healthcare visits per year for contact lens-related infections, including keratitis, a serious eye condition frequently linked to CLI and contact lens discomfort (CLD). By some estimates, 15 to 25 percent of contact lens wearers—about 6 million people—discontinue use as a result.
The Oxygen Equation
Your cornea breathes—literally. It absorbs oxygen directly from the air, and contact lenses can impede that exchange. Even breathable lenses become problematic when dirty or worn too long. Symptoms like redness, blurry vision and dryness are warning signs that your eyes aren’t getting what they need. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to consider alternatives like Detroit LASIK for long-term comfort and clarity.
LASIK: The Permanent Solution to CLI
If you’re tired of the cycle of irritation and endless lens care, LASIK in Detroit offers a way out. SoftTouch LASIK and the SMILE procedure (both laser vision correction treatments available at Lake Lazer Eye Center) reshape the cornea to correct vision and eliminate the need for contacts altogether. It’s a safe, proven procedure with fast recovery and life-changing results. At Lake Lazer Eye Center, we’ve helped thousands leave lenses behind and embrace clear, comfortable vision for good.
A Smarter Way Forward
CLI doesn’t have to be the painful end of your contact lens journey. With proper care, regular checkups and honest conversations with your eye doctor, many cases can be reversed or managed. And for those ready to ditch lenses altogether, procedures like SoftTouch LASIK and the SMILE procedure offer a safe, lasting solution. At Lake Lazer Eye Center, we’re here to help you see more—comfortably and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can CLI develop suddenly?
Contact lens intolerance can appear abruptly after years of comfortable lens wear, due to changes in eye health or environment. Many sufferers mistake their CLI for dry eye syndrome or seasonal allergies, but CLI can be more dangerous. See an eye doctor for a reliable diagnosis and prompt treatment.
Is CLI permanent?
Not always. With proper treatment and adjustments, many people can return to wearing lenses comfortably. However, it is vital to get treatment immediately to prevent contact lens intolerance from worsening and causing permanent damage.
Are certain lens types better for preventing CLI?
Daily disposable lenses tend to reduce the risk of CLI due to less buildup and fewer cleaning steps. You can also eliminate the risk of contact lens intolerance entirely by getting out of them through laser vision correction.
Can allergies cause contact lens intolerance (CLI)?
Yes, seasonal allergies can exacerbate CLI symptoms by increasing eye irritation and dryness. If you develop lens intolerance from allergies, it’s important to treat both CLI and the underlying causes. Visit an eye doctor for a definitive diagnosis to get the most appropriate treatment(s).
Is LASIK a good alternative for CLI sufferers?
For many, LASIK offers a permanent solution to vision correction without the discomfort of lenses. Schedule a no-obligation LASIK consultation to find out if this could be your permanent solution.
How often should I see an eye doctor if I wear contacts?
Schedule an eye appointment at least once a year to ensure your eyes are healthy and your vision is optimal. More frequent visits may be needed if you experience symptoms of CLI.
Can screen time affect CLI?
Yes, prolonged screen use can reduce blinking and tear production, worsening symptoms of contact lens intolerance. Healthy vision habits such as limiting screen time, adjusting lighting and taking frequent screen breaks can help lower the risk of CLI and computer vision syndrome.
With convenient locations in Clinton Township, Southfield and Milford, Lake Lazer Eye Center offers Metro Detroit-area patients comprehensive glaucoma care as well as up-front pricing and convenient and affordable payment plans for SoftTouch LASIK and the SMILE Pro procedure. Dr. Khambati has helped thousands of people from all over the world escape the restrictions of glasses and contacts through laser vision correction procedures. Detroit patients who are not candidates for vision correction can get our assistance with a contact lens evaluation or a selection of designer and specialty eyewear.
